[Jesus speaking]
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

I have run across quite a few people who have fallen into this category. They tell you one thing to your face, seem loyal and committed to something productive or good. But behind the scenes they undercut your efforts, question your intentions, and overall are more of an enemy than a friend. Sometimes the worst advice is couched in a sweet coating, like a poison pill that is coated in a candy flavoring. It goes down easily, but in the end leads to death.

We can tell these false prophets apart by their fruit. Their fruit is the way they act to serve God. Are they humble? Do they place God above themselves? Will they sacrifice everything to follow God’s Word as the ultimate source of truth?

Many of these false prophets try to use positivity and frequent agreement to mask their lack of love and care.

When we care about people, we want their best. And as Christ followers, this means a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and complete surrender to his Lordship and call on our lives.

Let us follow God’s lead and take all advice and instruction under the filter of the absolute authority of his Word!

Lord, that you for your truth that drives home the righteous ways that lead to life. I don’t need any earthly advisors, except those who reinforce your truth and point me back to a closer relationship with you.